A vehicle’s power window system is usually often overlooked until they stop working. When they fail to operate, simple chores such as picking up food at a drive-thru or dropping items at a friend’s place then become challenging activities.
Here are tips that must be done in the case of a power window failure.
What is the first thing that I must do if one or more of my power windows fail?
There are two ways to solve power window system failure. You may opt for the easy way to have an auto mechanic perform the necessary repairs or you may do the repairs yourself. This article will serve as a general information guide about basic components of a power window system and the common causes of failure.
Power Window Components
Regardless of make and model, a vehicle’s power window system consists of the following parts:
- Window regulator
- Window regulator motor
- Power window wiring
- Power window switch
- Power window control unit
- Tracks, weather stripping, and guides
Common Causes of Power Window Failure
- Age of your vehicle
You need to consider how long the components of your power window system have been performing their job.
- Frequency of use
How often do you use your car, and most importantly how often do you use the power windows? The power windows on the driver’s side are most used and are most likely to encounter failure over time.
- Natural wear and tear
Older makes and models are more likely to suffer from power window system failure due to natural wear and tear.
- Unit defect
If you have a new vehicle or newly repaired power window system, it is possible that some of its components are suffering from structural defects.
Damaged Power Windows- What Causes It?
If your vehicle is suffering from an isolated power window failure, you must think about previous activities that may have contributed to its failure. If you were in an accident recently or if the power window was subjected to unusually strong force, some parts of your power windows may have suffered from damages .
Signs of Power Window System Failure
Regardless of the cause of failure, at the end of the day, you still need it fixed. Here are some of the most common tell-tale signs that your power window system needs immediate repairs.
- The presence of unusual sounds or noise when you roll the window up and/or down.
- If there is no noise when you try to roll the power window up and/or down.
- The presence of ticking sounds means that the window regulator component of your window has failed.
- Window moves up and down but doesn’t stop. In this case, the window track system or weather-stripping feature could be damaged, dried up, or misaligned. Another reason is that the regulator is malfunctioning or weak.
Tips on how to Replace Window Regulator and Motor Assembly Parts
If the problem lies in your power window motor or regulator, you will need to replace it with a new one. Here are guidelines on how to replace the motor or window regulator of your vehicle.
Step 1 – Take out the door trim panel.
Step 2 – Remove the barrier gently. Make sure to set it aside in a safe place as this will need to be reinstalled after repair.
Step 3 – Disconnect all electrical connections to and from the power window system.
Step 4 – Place the window in the closed position to ensure that it is out of the way and does not slide down while replacing the regulator.
Step 5 – Remove the malfunctioning regulator and replace it with a new one.
Step 6 – Repeat Steps 1 to 4 in reverse to reassemble.
While this may seem like a simple process, the truth is, it can be difficult to replace the window regulator without proper automotive knowledge and inadequate tools. If you decided on DIY repair, you would need to either borrow specialised tools or purchase them to accomplish the repairs successfully.
On the other hand, if the problem lies in the track or weather-stripping component, you need to drive your vehicle to an auto mechanic for an accurate diagnosis. Bear in mind that not all power window issues can be repaired at home using simple tools. DIY may end up causing more expensive repairs. So, it’s best that you consult with a trusted car mechanic to ensure that your vehicle receives the right repairs as soon as possible.
If you live in Sydney and are looking to have your power window restored to its normal function, there is no need to look further. Here at HP Automotive, we offer premier power window repair services at competitive rates. We have a dedicated team of Sydney auto mechanics with the right set of knowledge and technical skills to resolve your issue right away. If you wish to schedule an appointment or vehicle inspection, fill-in our contact form or call our direct line on 02 9979 8372 today.